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How Language Began
The Story of Humanityβs Greatest Invention
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Check link for latest rating. ( 1,020 ratings, 161 reviews)
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
This book is ideal for readers fascinated by the origins of language, human evolution and cultural anthropology, as well as linguists and students seeking a fresh, interdisciplinary approach beyond traditional theories. It appeals to thoughtful general readers who enjoy challenging, well-argued works blending science and narrative.
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See moreA revolutionary account of the origins of language from one of the world's best known and most influential linguists.
A revolutionary account of the origins of language from one of the world's best known and most influential linguists
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
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Description
In his groundbreaking new book, Daniel Everett seeks answers to questions that have perplexed thinkers from Plato to Chomsky: when and how did language begin? What is it? And what is it for?
Daniel Everett confounds the conventional wisdom that language originated with Homo sapiens 150,000 years ago and that we have a 'language instinct'. Drawing on evidence from a wide range of fields, including linguistics, archaeology, biology, anthropology, and neuroscience, he shows that our ancient ancestors, Homo erectus, had the biological and mental equipment for speech one and a half million years ago, and that their cultural and technological achievements (including building ocean-going boats) make it overwhelmingly likely they spoke some kind of language.
How Language Began sheds new light on language and culture and what it means to be human. As always, Daniel Everett spices his account with incident and anecdote. His book is convincing, arresting, and entertaining.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Praised for its clarity and originality, How Language Began has been called a classic by Edward O. Wilson and lauded by critics across major publications. Oliver Kamm of the Times highlights its clear explanation of complex ideas, Harry Ritchie of the Spectator describes the book as ambitious and enthralling, while Prospect and Kirkus Reviews commend its importance, fascination and engaging style. It is recognised as a major contribution to scholarship and accessible to general readers interested in language and human origins.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781781253939
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 September 2018
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Profile Books Ltd
Edition: Main
Illustration: c. 60 half-tone and line printed in text
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 26.0mm
Width: 128.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 240g
Pages: 352
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About the Author
Daniel Everett worked in the Amazon jungles of Brazil for over 30 years, among more than a dozen different tribal groups. He has published extensively on language and culture and is one of the world's most influential thinkers in both fields. His Don't Sleep, There Are Snakes was selected by Blackwell's bookstores as one of the best of 2009, was an 'editor's choice' of the Sunday Times and has been the subject of a film and a play. He is currently Dean of Arts and Sciences at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts.
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